Pre-Slab / Foundation Inspection
The foundation is the most critical phase of any new construction project. Problems identified before concrete is poured can be corrected at minimal cost. The same problems discovered after the pour can result in structural compromise, costly remediation, or in some cases an unacceptable foundation that must be removed and repoured.
Understanding Foundation Types
Florida residential construction primarily uses two foundation systems, each requiring a different inspection approach.
Monolithic Slab
The footing and slab are poured as one continuous unit. The pre-slab inspection is performed after form boards are set, rebar is placed, vapor barrier is installed, and underground plumbing is complete, but before concrete is poured.
Stemwall Foundation
The foundation is built in stages. A footer inspection is performed after footer excavation and before the footer is poured. A stemwall inspection follows after block is laid. A pre-slab inspection is then performed before the slab pour over the interior.
Inspection Phases Available
Footer Inspection
Verifies footer excavation depth and width, rebar placement and grade, and soil conditions prior to the footer pour. Required for stemwall foundations.
Pre-Slab Inspection
The most common single-phase inspection for both monolithic and stemwall foundations. Verifies form board installation and alignment, vapor barrier placement and integrity, rebar size, spacing and support, underground plumbing rough-in, and overall slab preparation before concrete is placed. Once concrete is poured these elements are permanently hidden.
Post-Slab Inspection
Performed after concrete is poured and cured. Verifies finishing quality, control joint placement and depth, concrete curing performance, and confirms vertical rebar placement at stem walls where applicable.
Full Contract Package
For homeowners enrolling in Inspect-O-Graff's Full Contract Phase Inspection Program, the foundation phase includes all applicable inspections — footer, stemwall, underground plumbing, pre-slab, and post-slab — coordinated by Steve throughout the process with no scheduling burden on the homeowner.
Why this Phase Matters
What you cannot see after the slab is poured includes the vapor barrier, rebar placement and coverage, underground plumbing installation, form alignment, and soil preparation. There is no opportunity to verify these elements after concrete placement. Independent inspections at this phase are the only way to confirm the foundation of your home is built correctly before it is permanently sealed.